AuRico Gold announces preliminary fourth quarter and annual operational results and provides 2013 operational outlook

Monday, Jan 21, 2013

TORONTO, Jan. 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ - AuRico Gold Inc. (TSX: AUQ) (NYSE: AUQ), ("AuRico" or the "Company") today announces fourth quarter and annual operational results and also provides operational and capital investment guidance for 2013. All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated. The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

"It has been a transformational year for the Company as we re-positioned our portfolio for reliable, consistent and sustainable performance, demonstrating our focus on quality ounces that will drive significant cash flow going forward. We are pleased with the performance of the Young-Davidson and El Chanate mines as both assets reported solid results for the year. We are particularly encouraged by the progress at the newly commissioned Young-Davidson mine," stated Scott Perry, President and Chief Executive Officer. He continued, "The commissioning of Young-Davidson has been one of the most successful in recent years with the mill facility operating consistently at, or above, nameplate. As we gain more experience with operating Young-Davidson, we become more confident in its potential. In 2013 and the coming years we will continue to focus significant efforts on realizing that potential."

About AuRico Gold

AuRico Gold is a leading Canadian gold producer with mines and projects in North America that have significant production growth and exploration potential.  The Company is focused on its core operations including the Young-Davidson gold mine in northern Ontario, which declared commercial production on September 1 ^st, 2012 and the El Chanate mine in Sonora State, Mexico. AuRico's project pipeline also includes advanced development opportunities in Mexico and British Columbia. AuRico's head office is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

SOURCE AuRico Gold Inc.